Purse, possible witness sought in Erin Howlett death investigation

Waterloo Regional Police are looking to located a green purse that Erin Howlett possessed the last time she was seen alive.

According to police, the 28-year-old Howlett had the Coach-brand purse with her on June 27, which is the latest date they’ve been able to determine her whereabouts before her body was found in the Grand River eight days later.

“We’re hoping to locate the purse. It may give us some clues as to the circumstances on how the victim died,” police spokesperson Olaf Heinzel tells CTV News.

“Anyone who has found the purse or obtained a purse like this, we would ask them to call us.”

Police are also looking to identify and speak with a man, pictured at left, who may be a witness in the case and may have important information.

The cause of Howlett’s death, determined by a post-mortem examination, is not being released, however police believe it to be suspicious.

“It’s not in the interest of the investigation at this point to release certain details,” says Heinzel.

Dane Howlett, Erin’s brother, says his family is coping “fairly well” with the continued uncertainty.

“Without any real closure it’s tough to fully move on, but we’re doing the best we can,” he says.

“We don’t tend to dwell on the way Erin passed away. We try and remember her for the way she was.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 519-653-7700 ext. 8642 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.